3 John·Chapter 1

How to Apply

Ready to put this verse into action? Start by checking in with someone in your life—maybe a friend, family member, or coworker. Ask them how they’ve been doing and share something you admire about them. It could be their determination, their kindness, or how they handle tough situations. Let them know you see their truth and appreciate their journey! This small act of encouragement can make a huge difference, creating a ripple effect of positivity and support. You can even write a little note or message to someone, celebrating their growth. Trust me, it’ll brighten their day and strengthen your connection!

Chapter Context

Now, let’s dive into the bigger picture! This verse is nestled within a letter from John, who is writing to a friend named Gaius. Before this moment, John has been hearing reports about Gaius’s incredible faith and how he’s living it out in a world that can be pretty tough. This verse is like a high-five, celebrating Gaius’s journey. After this, John goes on to encourage Gaius further, reminding him that living in truth is powerful and transformative. So, this little moment of joy isn’t just a standalone cheer; it’s part of a larger conversation about staying true to what you believe, no matter the challenges you face. It’s a pivotal moment that sets the tone for the encouragement that follows!

Key Biblical Words (Word Study)

• for - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• rejoiced - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• greatly - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• brothers - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• came - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• and - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• testified - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• your - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• truth - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• indeed - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".

Reflection Question

How does knowing that someone is cheering you on in your journey affect how you live out your truth every day?

Related Verses

• 1 Thessalonians 5:11 - This verse emphasizes the importance of encouraging one another, just like John is doing with Gaius.
• Hebrews 10:24 - This verse encourages us to motivate each other toward good actions, reminding us that community matters.
• Proverbs 27:17 - It speaks to how friends sharpen and strengthen each other, similar to the joy expressed in John's letter.

Personal Prayer

Lord, thank You for the truth found in 3 John 1:3. Help me to take the insights from this scripture and apply them to my heart today.Amen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Main Themes

Hospitality, Truth, Support for missionaries, Authority and leadership, Good vs. evil, Community unity, Personal relationships

Key Verses

3 John 1:2, 3 John 1:4, 3 John 1:9, 3 John 1:11, 3 John 1:14

Historical Context

Written around 85-95 AD, 3 John addresses issues within a local church, specifically concerning interpersonal relationships and the authority of church leaders. Diotrephes represents a challenge to the early church's unity and mission, refusing to welcome traveling evangelists, which was a common practice in the early Christian community. John's letter serves both as a commendation of Gaius's positive example and a warning against the divisive actions of Diotrephes, emphasizing the need for love and support within the church body.